Captain James Arnold’s nomination as the new Chief of Police was a standout item. The council highlighted his career history and accomplishments, expressing support and excitement for his leadership. The importance of communication and morale within the police department was emphasized, and gratitude was extended to the department.

The council also engaged in a debate regarding the care for trees on Main Street. The possibility of the town assuming responsibility for tree maintenance was proposed, considering the lack of uniformity from individual property owners. The aesthetic and communal benefits of a well-maintained Main Street were acknowledged. Financial implications, including a potential surcharge for Main Street property owners and the exploration of county services for cost-effective maintenance, were discussed.

During public comments, residents expressed concerns about the financial implications of tree maintenance and the need for transparency in budget allocation. Questions were raised regarding the allocation of COVID-19 relief funds and budget management accountability. Furthermore, a financial settlement related to the town’s failure to supply opras was clarified as not being a settlement of litigation. The Mayor’s handling of the agenda and the ordinance affecting the police chief position were critiqued, and the need for corrective actions from the 2022 audit was emphasized.

Another issue was the ordinance authorizing the borough clerk to place a question on the November 2024 general election ballot, asking voters if they wished to establish a charter commission to study and recommend changes to the borough’s form of government. The proposal sparked debate among council members, leading to a decision to open the adoption for public comments. Residents voiced their opinions, showing support for the review of the town’s governance. Despite this, some council members opposed the adoption, requesting more details and access to certain information.

The budget for 2024 was also a contentious topic. The need for more details and access to information was underscored by some council members, who expressed reluctance to approve the budget without satisfactory answers to their questions. The administration’s role in the budget process was discussed, with one council member urging a change in approach to ensure the budget’s timely passage. The Mayor stated that efforts had been made to address budget-related questions and stressed the importance of moving forward.

Beach operations were a point of financial discussion, particularly the resolution regarding daily and weekly beach badge prices. The council debated raising the daily beach badge price from $12 to $13, with the resolution eventually passing amidst dissenting votes. Additional resolutions, including support for a regional flood study and authorization to settle pending litigation, were also addressed.

Updates from various commissions and departments were presented, including reports from the First Aid Squad and Fire Department on activities and volunteer needs, the Environmental Commission on beach sweeps, the Tourism Commission on marketing initiatives, and plans from the Main Street team for the North Side promenade. Concerns about delays in contract negotiations with the local union were voiced, and upcoming events like Memorial Day and summer entertainment series were discussed.

Public comments revealed frustrations about the involvement of a volunteer in negotiations, the handling of the Bradley food pantry, and concerns regarding council members’ conduct and attendance. Issues with the recreation center, website, board of directors, and a request for planning board meetings on Zoom were also brought up. Additionally, there were discussions about code enforcement, stormwater issues, and financial transparency related to environmental restoration funds and the library’s audit process.